Russell Brand trial begins
The gist
Russell Brand's trial on rape and sexual assault charges began at Southwark Crown Court in London.
The case turns on whether jurors can set aside years of publicity.
How it unfolded
- 2023A joint investigation by The Sunday Times, The Times and Channel 4's "Dispatches" published allegations of rape, sexual assault and emotional abuse against Brand; he strongly denied them.
- Dec 2025Prosecutors brought two more charges, one of rape and another of sexual assault, concerning two further women and alleged incidents in 2009.
- Jan 2026Prosecutors brought two additional charges concerning two further women and reported incidents in 2009; the additions led the court to postpone the trial from June to October.